Category: Blog

We all like saving money right? You might often find a 4×4 part or accessory you want to buy from our website, head on over to Google and search “Milner Off Road discount code”, hands up if you’ve done this before. Whilst we can’t fault you for doing so, unfortunately, we do not affiliate ourselves with any other discount websites, so unfortunately if you find a code online they probably will not be legitimate

So rather than wasting your time scouring the web for discount codes for Milner Off Road voucher codes, you will be able to find them right here as and when we release them. Milner Off Road Ltd frequently offer online discounts. These will only be found here, on www.milneroffroad.com, our Facebook page, Twitter page & Mailchimp (Online newsletter).

Milner Off Road Ltd currently run an ‘Owner’s Club Discount Scheme’ which offers the customer 5% off their order. Please check with your club to see if they are part of our discount scheme. They will then give you the necessary details. (The club discount is not valid on genuine items, special orders, engines or tyres).

Alternatively, you can purchase Milner Off Road gift vouchers from our gift vouchers section on our website. Click here to get yours, or treat a loved one or friend to the perfect 4×4 enthusiast’s gift.

How you can obtain a Milner Off Road Discount Code

As mentioned above, Milner Off Road offer discounts via the ‘Owners Club Discount Scheme’. To get a discount code, you have to be a member of one of the OCDS clubs.

You will either have to either join as a member if it is a website OR join as a member on their Facebook page and have been an active member for 3 months.

You must then inbox the admin for the code.

You must then enter your code or the code and their Forum name into the ‘Special Instructions / Comments’ box – we will then manually deduct the 5% off the order once we receive it.

Current valid groups are:

Toyota Hilux Surf Owners Group – Facebook

L200 FORUM – Website & FB Page

L200 Owners Club – Website

Ford-Ranger-Forum-UK – Website & FB Page

Toyota Hilux Surf Owners Group – FB Page

LandCruiserClub. net – Website

HPOC – Website

Terrano & Maverick Owners UK – FB Page

Club R51M – FB Page

Nissan 4×4 Owners UK – FB Page

Daihatsu Owners Page – FB Page

iMultiToyota Italia – Website

LandCruiserItalia.Org – Website

Norsk LandCruiser Klubb / NLCK – Website & FB Page

4×4 Norway Mitsubishi Klubben – Website

G.L.A.S.S (Green Lane Association) – Website

Trooper Owners Club – FB Page

L200 Owners UK – FB Page

Nissan X-Trail UK – FB Page

Shogun Sport / Pajero Sport Owners Club – FB Page

Ford Ranger Owners UK – FB Page

Isuzu Pick-up Owners Club UK – FB Page

Toyota4x4.se – Website

4×4 Response Members – Website

HiluxSurf.co.uk – Website

Discount codes are not valid on Special Orders, Tyres, Genuine Items or Engines

Petrol Fuel Cleaner Kit:

Tec4 is not just for 4×4 vehicles. Tec4 can be used on any vehicle. If you are unsure which kit is right for you. Give us a call on 01629 734411 or email [email protected] .

Prevention is better than cure! We would suggest getting some TEC4 before it is too late.

If you have any questions about the information above, you can email us: [email protected] or telephone 01629 734411.

Please note: Milner Off Road are not liable for any damage you may cause to your vehicle(s) by following the instructions above. If you have not performed this procedure on your vehicle before, we highly advise you take your vehicle to a local mechanic.

What Is AdBlue?

AdBlue is a highly purified colorless liquid. It contains demineralized water and urea (32.5%).

AdBlue is used with diesel engines and is also known outside of Europe as DEF, ARLA 32 or AUS 32.

The main active component of AdBlue is ammonia. This is chemically formed by hydrolising automotive urea, which is the main raw material for AdBlue. Urea is also used in the production of fertilizers and many more applications.

AdBlue is used with diesel engines using SCR technology. This technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction) reduces harmful emissions (NOx). AdBlue is injected into the catalyst of the SCR system,
where it triggers a chemical reaction with the ammonia. This chemical reaction converts the toxic nitrogen oxides (NOx) into nitrogen (N2) and water vapor (H2O). Water vapor and nitrogen are naturally occurring gasses that are harmless to the environment.

Do I need AdBlue In My Car?

From 2016, most new diesel passenger cars and light commercial vehicles such as delivery vans need AdBlue to be able to comply with the latest emissions legislation.

At the end of 2017, a new regulation required on the road real emission test (RDE). Since September 2017, all diesel vehicles are equipped with SCR technology!

Why Do I need AdBlue In My Car?

Your vehicle needs AdBlue to reduce NOₓ emission. Due to the stricter emission legislation, diesel engines need to have cleaner exhaust gases. NOₓ is one of the emissions that causes acid rain. To meet the Euro 6 standards for diesel engine emission the use of Selective Catalyst Reduction-technology (and thus AdBlue) is required. The Euro 6 standards are into force from September 2014 for new passenger cars.

All commercial vehicle manufacturers have to meet the Euro 6 standards for diesel engine emission. Although Euro 5 emission standards could be met by different technologies, Euro 6 standards require the use of Selective Catalytic Reduction with AdBlue.

Here is a quick video that may help you understand a wee bit more.

What Happens If I Run Out Of AdBlue?

If you run out of AdBlue, your car will have limited performance. When you have switched off the car and your AdBlue tank is empty, it will not restart.
Your car, usually on the driver display screen will give you plenty of warnings that you are running low.
Get your AdBlue here: AdBlue @ Milner’s.
Do you need more than 20 Litres of AdBlue? Give us a call on 01629 734411 and ask for Andrew. Milner Off Road are able to get Bulk AdBlue at seriously competitive rates.

How Much AdBlue Do I Need?

Average consumption of AdBlue is generally 5% of diesel use, so you will need to tank much less for AdBlue then you do for diesel. You will use about 5 litres of AdBlue to every 100 litres of diesel.

Is AdBlue Hazardous?

No, Adblue is not a hazardous substance. It has no known significant effects or critical hazards.

Should you buy part worn 4×4 tyres? Purchasing part worn tyres might seem like a cheap alternative, but can end up costing you more in the long run.

When it comes to buying 4×4 tyres, no corner should be cut. Tyres are extremely important for keeping you and your fellow motorists safe on the road. Your tyres are the only part of your 4×4 in contact with the road, therefore it’s vital they should be in tip-top condition.

What are part worn tyres?

As the name suggests, part worn tyres are tyres that have already been used. Buying part worn tyres could be considered like buying anything other second-hand, if something goes wrong with it, you can’t take it back.

Are part worn tyres safe?

Tread depth is one of the key components of safe driving. If a tyre has low tread depth, it can become increasingly ineffective and dangerous to other road users.

Are part worn tyres legal?

In the UK, it is not illegal to sell part worn tyres to motorists, However, a legislation has been put in place to permit the sale, subject to the tyres meeting a number of strict criteria. Despite this, part worn tyres are being sold illegally and a pose a serious safety risk to motorists.

The tyre must NOT have large cuts any bulges or lumps both internally and externally

The tyre should not have plies or cords exposed

Prior to the sale, the tyres must have passed an inflation test

The tyres original grooves must still be clearly visible in their entirety and must be to a depth of at least 2mm across the full breadth of the tread, around its entire circumference

Part worn tyres which have NOT been re-treaded must clearly show the relevant ‘E’ mark alongside which ‘PART-WORN’ must be permanently and legibly applied in letters at least 4mm high.

Part-worn tyres that have been re-treaded must have one of the following:

The tyre should have BS AU 144b, 144c, 144d, or 144e markings on the side wall (if first supplied as a re-tread on or before 31 December 2003 an ECE approval mark (if first supplied as a re-tread on or after 1 January 2004)

The tyre should feature a permanent mark to identify the original model and manufacturer, the word ‘RETREAD’ moulded onto or into its sidewall (in upper case letters at least 4mm high) and further markings in accordance with ECE rules. You may need to seek further advice as to which rules apply

The indication ‘PART WORN’ must also appear next to the BS or ECE approval mark, or next to the word ‘RETREAD’ on the tyre

How much do part worn tyres cost?

Image source: Kwik Fit

The cost of a part worn tyre can vary depending on the size of the tyre, brand, and how much the tyre has worn. Costs will also vary depending on the fitter you choose. When purchasing a part worn tyre, the cost is lower than that of a new tyre. However, despite the initial upfront cost, part worn tyres do not offer good value for money in the long run.

This is because a part worn tyre has been used before, and will have less tread depth than that of a new tyre. Part worn tyres typically have 4mm and under, whereas a new tyre will on average come with 8mm of tread. Instead of focusing on the cost of the initial price, you should look at the cost per mm of a tyre.

Are part worn tyres any good?

Depending on their condition, part worn tyres can be good for a short amount of time when compared to new tyres. If you only drive low miles every day, then part worn tyres might be a great solution for you.

Where can I buy part worn tyres?

If you’re tempted to buy part worn tyres, you can simply Google “part worn tyres near me” and you will be given an abundance of links to different companies selling part worn tyres near you.

Should I buy part worn tyres?

The choice is yours. We will always advise you to buy new tyres for safety reasons and for long-term investment. In the UK, it isn’t illegal to sell part worn tyres, but if you do decide to buy part worn tyres for your 4×4, please check they meet the strict criteria mentioned above. Part worn’s may appear to save you money initially, however, they actually cost you more in the long run & could put you and others road safety at risk.

Find out what causes brake squeal and how to stop brake squeal

There’s nothing worse than coming to a stop and hearing that shrill, piercing sound of your brakes squealing.

But what actually causes this noise and how can it be prevented?

This is something we get asked on a day-to-day basis, so we’re writing this article to give you the answer.

This is actually a very common problem that a lot of people don’t understand.

Most people when they hear their brakes squealing, they do nothing and expect it to go away. Sometimes, people have their music too loud to even notice it.

However, not resolving brake squeal can be dangerous and cost you in the long run.

What Causes Brake Squeal?

Squealing brakes are a sign of one of the following conditions.

The friction material is effectively gone and the backing plate is being jammed against the brake rotor (worn brake pads).

Glazed pads and rotors.

Lack of brake pad insulation

Broken anti-rattle clips

Worn brake pads

Squealing is the result of extremely high-frequency vibration between the pads, the caliper piston, and the brake rotor. A brake pad is compromised of steel backing with friction material attached to it. When you apply the brakes, hydraulic pressure is produced causing the brake pads (via brake calipers) to clamp down on the brake discs (rotors) causing friction. The friction caused by the pads clamping onto the discs is what slows down and brings your vehicle to a stop.

When the friction material on your pads wears down, the time has come to change your brake pads.

Glazed brake pads and discs

Brake squeal can also happen when the brake calipers are sticking and the brake stays partially applied. When this happens the brake pads are in constant contact with the disc. This produces excessive friction and heat. Overheated brake pads can harden and crystallise.

Glazing doesn’t just occur on brake pads, it can also occur on brake discs. If this is the case, the squealing is the result of these hardened surfaces coming into contact with each other.

Lack of brake pad insulation

When a vehicle is new, insulation shims are placed against the steel backing of the pad effectively insulating it from the brake caliper. When the shims eventually wear out, this can also cause squealing.

Broken Anti-rattle clips

Brake pads are held in place on the caliper by pad stays. Anti-rattle clips are used to secure the pad to prevent it from vibrating or rattling when you apply the brakes. If your anti-rattle clips are broken, the brake pads vibrating will cause the squealing noise you can hear.

How to Stop Brake Squeal

So, we’ve identified the causes. We now need to stop the brake squeal from happening.

Replace worn out brake pads with new brake pads

Clean your existing brake pads

Replace or clean your brake discs if they’re rusted.

ChrisFix explains how to stop your brakes from squeaking in this great video (see below)

When Should You Replace Your Brake Pads?

Changing the brake pads of your vehicle is a major adjustment to your vehicle to keep it safe.

When should they be replaced?

If your vehicle’s brake pedal feels spongy or springy when applied

Poor braking

Your vehicle judders when braking

Brake Squeal

Replacing your brake pads is a cheap and effective way of keeping your vehicle roadworthy and safe and should be something that is not overlooked. Check your brake pads today to keep your vehicle running safely, smoothly and legally.

Milner Off Road stock a wide array of 4×4 brake pads for different vehicles, so if you suspect that your brakes may be on their way out, we can help.

Simply enter your reg number here to see our range of 4×4 brake pads and other parts, and if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to get in touch or leave a comment.

Best DPF Cleaner for Diesel Vehicle Maintenance

If you own a diesel vehicle, then you will definitely need to clean your DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) at some point. Most diesel owners aren’t even aware their vehicle has a DPF and can be quite worried when the dreaded DPF light appears on their dashboard.

The best DPF cleaner we recommend here at Milner is the TEC4 Complete DPF & Diesel System Cleaning Kit for vehicles with DPF. It’s the perfect cost-effective solution for cleaning your DPF. This kit can easily either significantly improve fuel economy or fix an existing problem. Nb. This kit will only clean your DPF.

What is a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)?

The diesel particulate filter (DPF) is designed to remove diesel particulate matter or soot from exhaust gas produced by a diesel engine.

The DPF needs to be cleaned regularly, and this is done by a process called regeneration. The regeneration can be either active, passive or forced regeneration. Soot is burnt off at high temperature – approximately 600°c – leaving only a residue of ash. The reason for the regeneration is to allow it to take on more pollution from the diesel engine.

What to Look for In A DPF Cleaner

In our opinion, these are the most important things to look for:

Combats the adverse effects of stop-start driving

Lowers the temperature at which soot particles are burnt off

Aids passive regeneration of the DPF system

Improves engine performance and response

Compatible with all diesel engines

Reduces exhaust emissions

Tec4 DPF System Cleaner is simply added to the contents of the fuel tank. The product uses a catalyst to adhere to the soot particles produced during combustion thus lowering the temperature at which the soot particles can be burnt off.

This enables the system to regenerate at the lower temperatures typically associated with short journeys and stop-start driving.

Tec4 DPF System Cleaner is compatible with Diesel and Bio-Diesel.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE:
Use only as directed in compression ignition engines.

Add one 400ml bottle of Tec4 DPF System Cleaner to the contents of the fuel tank.

For engines that have a fuel tank larger than 100-litre capacity add at 0.5% by volume.

Why Should You Clean Your DPF?

As we mentioned above, the DPF’s aim is to physically trap and collect diesel soot and ash particles. While the majority of trapped soot is burned off during periodic filter regeneration, ash particles are not burned off. Over time, the unburned ash particles and soot will plug the filter unless the filteris cleaned. Letting Soot and ash build up can lead to you needing a new DPF which can cost anywhere from a few hundred pounds to a few thousand pounds depending on your vehicles make.

The common benefits of regular DPF cleaning are:

DPF Blocked? What happens next?

When your DPF filter reaches approximately 45% blockage the filter will begin “active regeneration”. Once the blockage reaches this level, this will usually lead to the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve being closed. To begin the “active regeneration” the boost pressure from the turbo is increased slightly along with a slightly higher idle RPM. Diesel is then injected into the cylinders just after combustion so that it enters the Exhaust further heating up the DPF to around 600°c and clearing the soot from the filter.

DPFs tend to need replacement after a certain mileage has elapsed, the rate of which varies between 80,000 and 150,000 miles, dependent on the car make and model, the type of use and whether or not the engine has had regular oil changes with a lubricant that does not contain additives that block the filter. Instead of having a new DPF fitted, it is possible to have it cleaned.

Is it Illegal to remove the DPF?

Removing your car’s diesel particulate filter (DPF) might be tempting because the damage caused by a clogged DPF can result in four-figure repair bills. To meet or exceed European-dictated emissions standards, DPFs have been fitted to most diesel cars for almost a decade and, because they need high temperatures to regenerate, low mileage stop-start motoring can cause them to block. Should a fascia warning lamp be ignored, expensive engine damage can occur.

If a vehicle is fitted with a DPF and is then removed, it is illegal to drive that vehicle on the road. “It is an offence under the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations to use a vehicle that has been modified in such a way that it no longer complies with the air pollutant emissions standards it was designed to meet.” Removal of a DPF will almost invariably contravene these requirements, making the vehicle illegal for road use.

Will DPF Removal Result in MOT Failure?

If you have your DPF filter removed or has been removed before you bought the vehicle, it will fail its MOT. There have been cases where people have bought a used diesel vehicle with 12 month’s MOT and failed it’s next MOT because, unbeknown to the new owner, the DPF had been removed.

However, if your vehicle was never originally fitted with a DPF, it will be logged in the VIN code and the MOT inspector will not look for one.

Please note: Milner Off Road are not liable for any damage you may cause to your vehicle(s) by following the instructions above. If you have not performed this procedure on your vehicle before, we highly advise you take your vehicle to a local mechanic.

What Is A DPF?

A DPF or Diesel Particulate Filter is a device designed to remove diesel particulate substance or soot (black carbon) from the exhaust gases of a diesel engine.

What Does A DPF Do?

Also known as a ‘soot trap’, the DPF catches the soot from the exhaust gases, effectively reducing the amount of emissions the car creates. Since 2009 it is law for new diesel cars to be fitted with a DPF off the production line, to help stop the amount of harmful emissions being injected into our atmosphere. Removal of your DPF can result in a hefty fine, up to £1000 for a car and up to £2500 for a light goods vehicle.

How Do I Clean My DPF?

You have a few options when it comes to the cleaning of your DPF.

Regeneration.

Some say driving at speeds of over 40mph for 10 minutes using at least 2500 RPM and sticking in 3rd/4th gear can turn off your DPF light from your dash.
(We personally would not recommend this method)

Local DPF Cleaning Specialist.

Send it to a local specialist. However you may have to dig deep, don’t expect it to be cheap.

DPF Cleaning Additives.

Relatively new to the market, these cleaning additives are now readily available online or at your local motor factors.
In fact we (Milner Off Road) stock the TEC4 branded additives on our website. Tec4 are manufacturers of high quality engine treatments and Fuel Saving products, you can find out more about them here.
TEC4 advise, vehicles used regularly for urban cycle driving rarely achieve the conditions required for regeneration, resulting in the filter becoming blocked. TEC4’s DPF System Cleaner contains cerine additives which bond to the soot particles reducing the temperature at which they combust, this enables the DPF to passively regenerate during urban cycle driving.
Here at Milner’s we stock the Complete DPF & Diesel System Cleaner , adding this product into your annual service is turning out to be a popular choice. Not only does it clean your DPF but it also cleans your fuel system. (Please also ensure you use the correct specification oil).

Prevention is better than cure! We would suggest getting some TEC4 before it is too late.

Here is a quick video explaining the TEC4 products:

At only £17 + vat it isn’t going to break the bank, making it the perfect solution to your annual service.

If you have any questions about the information above, you can email us: [email protected] or telephone 01629 734411.

Please note: Milner Off Road are not liable for any damage you may cause to your vehicle(s) by following the instructions above. If you have not performed this procedure on your vehicle before, we highly advise you take your vehicle to a local mechanic.

What Is An Alternator?

Alternators are commonly used in ‘newer’ vehicles. Their function is to charge the battery and get power to the electrical system when your engine is turned on.
The alternator earns its name from the term ‘alternating current’ or AC.
Nearly all alternators are seated using brackets which bolt on to a specific point on the engine.

Is My Alternator Faulty?

You may be experiencing slow start ups, flickering headlights or a warning light on your instrument panel, but is it the alternator?

Milner’s have put together a quick test to help you out.

The Multimeter test.

For this test you will need a multi-meter / multi-tester / voltmeter. These can be purchased online or at your local motor factors, you may even have change left from a tenner.
With the engine switched off, connect the meter to the battery terminals RED positive & BLACK negative. (Do not connect these to the cable clamps)

The meter should read a minimum of 12.3 volts or if you have a good condition battery, it should read at least 12.6 volts.
If your meter is showing below this reading it could be a result of one of the following reasons:

The battery is discharged. (Recharge your battery)

The battery is low on distilled water. (The water should be 5mm above the plates. DO NOT fill the battery full to the top).

The battery has a high internal resistance. (Sulphide plates)

IF your battery is in good condition.

Start your engine and rev to 2000 RPM. This will draw power on the battery and cause the voltage regulator to start the alternator working. Let the engine idle and the reading should be:

A minimum of 13 volts.

Revving the engine will fluctuate the voltage between 13 to 14.5 volts, which indicates the alternator is in good shape.

If the voltage when revving the engine stays the same or decreases, then your alternator is more than likely faulty.

To test the regulator, repeat the process with the lights, radio and A/C (if fitted) switched ON.
Rev the engine again to a constant 2000 RPM. The meter reading should read above 13 volts and no more than 14.8 volts. IF the meter reads above 14.8 volts, the alternator is probably over-charging.

If you are unsure on the above, take your vehicle to your local garage and get them to do the test for you.

(The above information is a guide only. It is down to the operator to gain the correct voltage tolerances for the vehicle on test. The above tests are for a standard 12 volt negative earth system. A good working battery will show 12.6 volts and a minimum of 12.3 volts.)

Nissan Navara Rear Suspension Issues.

The model in question is the Navara NP300 2015 onward.

The vehicle itself gets a 4.5 out of 5 stars by AutoExpress, reporting ”Small bumps are ironed out far more effectively and the floating feeling over sudden undulations is much better suppressed.”
However, while it brings some benefits when unladen, it has been criticised for struggling to cope with anything approaching its claimed load weight of 1 tonne. Further more Nissan state the NP300 has a 3.5 tonne towing capacity.

Despite the claimed stats, opinions from owners are coming in that their Nissan’s are ”struggling” with loads well under the claimed payload. Unmanageable steering and sagging springs are just a few to mention.
Vehicles that are used for work or tow large trailers are proving that the standard rear suspension is much too soft.

Here at Milner’s we developed a kit to abolish the NP300’s flaws / poor rear suspension characteristics.

The Milner kit will restore the vehicle to a more usable ride height when loaded/towing without compromising comfort when empty.

Who doesn’t love awesome modified 4×4’s? We most certainly do, and so we’ve put together a list of 11 awesome modified 4×4’s from around the world. Check out how these off-road enthusiasts are upping their 4×4 game.

1. Toyota Land Cruiser 76 Series

Image source: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/309481805634736390/

2. Land Rover Defender

Image source: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/289145238550094091/

3. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40

Image source: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/751678994028681166/

4. Nissan Navara

Image source: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/561050066050718015/

5. Toyota Tundra

Image source: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/579275570792846100/

6. Ford F-150

Image source: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/30610472449665242/

7. Mitsubishi Pajero

Image source: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/464996730256463059/

8. Toyota Tacoma

Image source: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/399835273151661454/

9. Nissan Pathfinder

Image source: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/501799583466794109/

10. Toyota Hilux

Image source: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/824581012993696945/

11. Milner LRM-1

Of course we had to include our own creation too!

Which one is your favourite? Let us know your thoughts on these modified 4×4’s from around the world in the comments below, and be sure to share some photos of your own awesome 4×4 mods too.